CSIR-CFTRI National Nutrition Week pushes to minimise nutrient loss while food processing

CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI) in Mysuru urges a focus on minimizing nutrient loss during food processing. At the National Nutrition Week 2024 and Global Bio India Roadshow 2024, the institute stressed using proper processing methods, temperature control, fortification, and fresh ingredients.

The event, themed ‘Nutritious Diets for Everyone,’ highlighted that a study of 111 Indian food items showed deficiencies in 11 essential nutrients, recommending traditional foods over fast foods for better nutrition.

CFTRI calls for policy changes and increased fruit and vegetable consumption despite costs. Over Reliance on processed foods and artificial additives has been linked to lifestyle diseases. Enhanced collaboration between food technologists and nutritionists is essential.

Historically, food processing focused on extending shelf life, often compromising nutrient quality. Today, the challenge is to balance convenience, cost, and nutritional value, especially as fewer people cook at home and processed foods become more prevalent.